Dry and tasty: the benefits and harms of dried fruits

Dried fruits - apples and pears, citrus fruits, as well as dried apricots, prunes, raisins - are now ingrained in the menus of many of us. It’s not surprising, because they can easily replace sweets, and many other dishes - baked goods or meat - only get better from the addition of dried fruits, acquiring new shades of taste. Let's look in more detail at the beneficial properties of dried fruits, as well as the not-so-healthy ones that, alas, also exist in any other product:

Benefit

• Contains a large amount of fiber, which is important for digestion and reducing “bad” cholesterol;
• They contain a large number of antioxidants that help protect cells from damage by free radicals;
• They are a source of vitamins and minerals such as potassium, iron, calcium and vitamin C;
• Convenient and filling snack: dried fruits can be taken with you anywhere as a snack. Such a meal will not take up much space in your bag or backpack and will relieve hunger for a long time.

Harm

• Dried fruits contain large amounts of sugar, so they should be consumed in moderation. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, tooth decay and other health problems, and is also undesirable for people with diabetes;
• Due to the abundance of fiber, dried fruits can cause indigestion when consumed in large quantities;
• Some dried fruits are treated with sulfites, which can cause allergic reactions. Be careful when eating dried fruits, do not eat a lot at one meal, especially if you are allergic to any food products;
• Dried fruit can become contaminated with bacteria such as salmonella if it is not stored properly. When purchasing, pay attention to the conditions and packaging in which dried fruits are stored in the supermarket.

Overall, dried fruits can be a healthy addition to a healthy diet, but they should be consumed in moderation and with risks in mind to ensure a truly rewarding and enjoyable meal.